Patient Identification

Always check the identity of the patient:

• When taking sample for blood grouping or crossmatch
• Before commencing the transfusion.

In emergency situations a process should be in place for cases where a patient is unable
to be identified.

Remember when collecting a pretranfusion blood sample:

• Only one patient should be bled/processed at a time
• Never pre-label the specimen tubes
• Check identity by ASKING the patient to state and spell his/her name AND check the wrist band
• Check the request form and sample match the patient and wrist band
• Remember to sign the sample and request form
• The person taking the blood specimen is responsible for ensuring the correct labelling of
  the specimen.